RFID checkout system with tags

Abstract

A radio frequency identification (RFID) checkout system includes a reader, a first RFID tag, and a second RFID tag. The first tag is configured to be attached to an item selected to not be read by the reader, and the second tag is configured to be attached to an item selected to be read by the reader. Upon items being positioned within the reader, the reader reads the tags to determine if the first tag is present within the reader. The reader is enabled to complete a checkout transaction if no first tags are detected within the reader during the reading. The first tag includes an attachment base, an extension portion connected to the attachment base, and a RFID antenna connected to the extension portion. The extension portion is movable relative to the attachment base between at least a first position and a second position, and the extension portion extends away from the attachment base in the first position.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]The disclosure relates generally to checkout systems and, more specifically, to a checkout system that is capable of handling items that are not compatible with RFID tags.[0003]2. Description of the Related Art[0004]Many retailers have attempted to reduce expenses by streamlining operations at checkout. Typically, a checkout clerk either manually types in the price of an item to be purchased or scans the barcode on the item at a register checkout station. More recently, these register checkout stations, which have been staffed by an employee of the retailer, have been replaced by self-checkout stations. The self-checkout stations reduce expenses for the retailers while offering convenience and time savings to customers.[0005]An issue with the self-checkout station, however, is that the customer still has to individually scan each item. The process of scanning each item is time-consuming, particularly if the consumer has...

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